The Chargers travel up north to face the Raiders in the Coliseum one last time on Thursday night.
Here are four key matchups to keep an eye on that could determine the outcome of the game.
Chargers linebackers vs. Raiders RB Josh Jacobs
Los Angeles’ run defense is coming off their best performance this season, allowing only 45 yards. But they will have to keep that same type of energy facing Jacobs, who is the best rookie running back and one who’s establishing himself as one of the top backs in the league.
Jacobs ranks fifth in rushing yards per game with 92.5 and is tied for fifth among starting running backs in yards per carry (4.9) and rushing touchdowns (6).
The Chargers have done a better job at setting the edge at the line of scrimmage to limit the space for running backs to run, but they will have to be at their best in terms of tackling because he will fight for every yard by lowering his pads and utilizing his compact lower body to run through ankle tackles.
Chargers secondary vs. Raiders QB Derek Carr
Oakland has relied heavily on Jacobs for their offensive success, but Carr has been at his best, especially with having a young wide receiving core that’s not as deep in terms of depth.
Through eight games, Carr leads the league in completion percentage, ranks sixth in passer rating and has thrown 13 touchdowns and just four interceptions.
Despite the lack of depth in the secondary, particularly at the safety position, Los Angeles has allowed the fifth-fewest passing yards per this season. But they have given up second-highest completion percentage and the eighth-most yards per pass attempt.
Chargers defensive line vs. Raiders offensive line
How have the Raiders put together one of the best offenses that they’ve had in recent seasons? They’ve done this by putting together a stout offensive line that ranks among the top in the NFL.
As a result, Carr has only been sacked nine times this season and has yet to be sacked in four of the past five games. They’ve been a huge reason why Jacobs has had a lot of success running the football, too.
For Los Angeles, it all starts with the heart and soul of the defensive line, Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram. They’re coming off a phenomenal performance that resulted in three sacks and six quarterback hits.
Right tackle Trent Brown, who was a huge acquisition this past offseason, is uncertain for this game due to an injury. But second-yard Kolton Miller has been solid at protecting Carr’s blindside.
As for the interior, the Chargers might be getting Brandon Mebane and Justin Jones back after missing the past three games. The lack of playmakers inside is where Jacobs could flourish, so having them available for this week’s game will be critical.
Chargers QB Philip Rivers vs. Raiders defense
Rivers has had a lot of big games at the Coliseum in his professional career and he will be looking to leave his mark there one last time.
There’s a strong chance that the veteran quarterback will have a monstrous performance facing an Oakland defense that ranks last in passing yards per game.
On top of that, Rivers looked dialed in under new play-caller, Shane Steichen’s offense last weekend. Furthermore, once Rivers is locked in, it only gives his pass-catchers more opportunities to prosper.
Los Angeles’ offensive line faces a Raiders’ defensive line that has only sacked opposing quarterbacks 15 times, so the amount of time he will have to throw the ball, along with his ability to get the ball off quickly is a recipe for success.
